From Lawmaking To Lobbying: Maine Bill Would Close Revolving Door For A Year

AUGUSTA, Maine - An analysis by The Associated Press finds that at least 22 former Maine lawmakers registered as lobbyists within months of leaving office in the past three decades. What's more, the AP's analysis found that 10 of them registered as lobbyists within the same year of leaving office. The figures are incomplete because some part-time lobbyists don't have to register as such. The Maine Legislature is advancing a proposal to ban future lawmakers from any paid lobbying within their first year out of office. Critics say the so-called revolving door boosts the influence of lobbyists who trade on their political connections to advance special interests.Democratic Gov. Janet Mills hasn't taken a position on the legislation, sponsored by Democratic Sen. Justin Chenette.